Kisharon's special needs education has been praised by the chairman of the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust, Sir James Hill.

In the company of SSAT officer Lorna Grant, Sir James toured the charity's Tuffkid nursery and day school in Golders Green and the college, adult day opportunities service and the Asher Loftus Business Centre in Hendon.

During the visit, the SSAT chief viewed the opti-music facility which enables those with profound disabilities to play complex musical pieces and to develop communication skills. He took part in an interactive lesson at the day school and was told by nursery head Pam Lerner of the advantages of providing special needs children with a tailored programme from an early age.

Sir James complimented Kisharon on its commitment "to providing for every stage of a person's life in a truly inspiring way. It has been wonderful to see how they have created services that so many people in the Jewish community benefit from".